E120 refers to the coloring agent in the pigment called Carmine, also known as Crimson Lake, Cochineal, Natural Red 4, or C.I. 75470.
The pigment is produced by boiling certain types of scale insects.
It is used in the manufacture of food, juice, candy, cosmetics, paints, and artificial flowers.
E120 specifically refers to the ingredient when it is used as a food additive.
Also known as Cochineal, Carminic acid, Carmines E120 is most commonly found as a red food colouring in drinks, biscuits, sweets, desserts and sauces.
It is unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans, as it is derived from the cochineal insect.